'MADANI Jiwa Merdeka' Ignites National Spirit, Unity Among Malaysians

By Samantha Tan Chiew Tieng

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 6 (Bernama) -- The National Day and Malaysia Day theme song, titled ‘MADANI Jiwa Merdeka’, was launched today with a unique arrangement incorporating traditional instruments like the sitar, tabla, and gendang.

Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) music director Datuk Mokhzani Ismail said that the song, written and composed by Affan Mazlan and performed by Amir Masdi, is among the best ever produced under his chairmanship of the National Day theme song.

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He shared that creating a modern and patriotic song to engage Malaysia’s diverse population is a tall order.

“This year, I was entrusted with the responsibility and approached young composer Affan Mazlan to see if he was interested in creating the theme song. After listening to his work, I decided to incorporate elements from the diverse Malay, Chinese, and Indian ethnic groups,” he told Bernama.

He was met after the Ministry of Communications’ monthly assembly, during which Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil launched the theme song.

Mokhzani said that 'MADANI Jiwa Merdeka' is more than just a song; it aims to foster the spirit of unity and national pride among Malaysians celebrating their 67th National Day this year.

“The lyrics are meant to instil a love for the nation, promote unity and foster a spirit of harmony. The song itself will bring together people of all races, regardless of religious beliefs and backgrounds. I hope everyone will listen to it and sing along with the spirit of togetherness,” he said.

Mokhzani also expressed hope that more young composers will collaborate with him and RTM to create contemporary, patriotic songs that foster national unity.

Meanwhile, 24-year-old composer Affan Mazlan said his collaboration with Mokhzani on this year’s National Day theme song produced a modern and impactful track that integrates orchestral and ethnic music elements.

“This song represents my approach to creating sing-along tracks with engaging lyrics in certain parts so that all Malaysians can sing together and fully appreciate the song’s message,” he said.

Affan Mazlan, who took two months to complete the song, hopes that 'MADANI Jiwa Merdeka will inspire all Malaysians to unite in song, embrace the MADANI spirit, and appreciate the country's independence.

This year’s theme song marks Affan Mazlan’s second contribution to the National Day celebrations, with his first being the 2023 National Day theme song, ‘Tekad Perpaduan Penuhi Harapan.’

“I am delighted that my song was selected as the National Day theme, recognising the significant responsibility it carries. 

“I drew inspiration from a variety of international songs, not just patriotic ones, to reach all segments of society. It’s important to strike a balance and avoid being too corporate or pop-oriented,” he said.

Earlier, Fahmi in his speech, urged the Ministry of Communications staff to fly the Jalur Gemilang to ensure the success of the National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang 2024 campaign, which was launched on July 21.

He asked department heads to convey this message to their staff, encouraging them to celebrate National Day with a strong sense of patriotism.

“I hope we will not only celebrate our athletes’ victories on the global stage but also honour our independence and the existence of Malaysia as a sovereign nation every day,” he said.

-- BERNAMA